According to the Met Office, the UK recorded a provisional high of 38.1C at Kew Gardens, marking the fifth-hottest day on record and the second time temperatures have reached the 38C threshold this year during an ongoing summer heatwave. Across Europe, extreme temperatures have fueled wildfires from the West Midlands in England to the Chalkidiki peninsula in Greece, where holidaymakers evacuated by land and sea.
UK Temperature Records and Met Office Data
The Met Office confirmed the 38.1C reading at Kew Gardens in west London, while Pershore in Worcestershire reached 38C. According to the Met Office, about 40 locations across central and southern England recorded temperatures of 36C or higher. Chief forecaster Neil Armstrong noted that this spell of extreme heat is part of a remarkable summer.
Charlwood and Pershore provisionally reached 37.8C, while Kew Gardens also reported 37.0C. The Met Office stated that before 2026, the UK had recorded 37C or higher on only six occasions, compared to three times this year alone.
Wildfires and Emergency Responses in England and Greece
In England’s West Midlands, approximately 60 firefighters tackled a large grassfire near a golf course in Stourbridge, where footage from Sky News showed several homes ablaze. According to the West Midlands fire service, Stourbridge town hall was established as a rest centre, and transport was arranged for evacuees. Operators also warned rail passengers to travel only if vital due to weather disruptions.
In northern Greece, gale-force winds exceeding 100 km/h fueled a massive wildfire on the Chalkidiki peninsula. Civil protection minister Evangelos Tournas described the conditions as extreme. According to the local fire brigade and Reuters, more than 140 firefighters, nine aircraft, and seven helicopters deployed to battle flames in Siviri.
Heatwave Impacts Across France and Western Europe
In France, temperatures neared 40C in large regions, with Lyon, Nantes, Toulouse, and Le Mans reaching 39C, and Paris recording 37C, according to Météo-France and broadcaster BFM. Two towns in western France exceeded 42C. According to Le Figaro, the heatwave extended into its 17th day, marking the third longest period of extreme temperatures recorded in the country.
French professional firefighters’ unions held discussions with interior minister Laurent Nuñez regarding staffing levels and resources. Union representatives called for an intensive mobilization and a Paris protest, stating the service had reached saturation point. Minister Nuñez stated on social media that the time for action had come and pledged to continue dialogue.
Did You Know?
Did you know that prior to 2026, the UK had only recorded temperatures of 37C or higher on six total occasions? This summer alone, weather stations have hit or exceeded that mark three times, according to Met Office historical data.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the highest temperature recorded in the UK during this heatwave?
According to the Met Office, a provisional reading of 38.1C was recorded at Kew Gardens, making it the fifth-hottest day on record in the UK.
Which areas were affected by the amber extreme heat warnings?
How were evacuations handled during the Greek wildfires?
According to the local fire brigade and Reuters, 15 boats—including coastguard, private, and fire vessels—evacuated tourists and locals from the sandy shores of Siviri on the Chalkidiki peninsula.
How long has the heatwave lasted in France?
According to Le Figaro and Météo-France, the heatwave extended into its 17th day, marking the third longest period of extreme temperatures ever recorded in France.
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